Day by Day for the Holy Souls in Purgatory 

by Susan Tassone

Another excellent offering from Susan Tassone, “The Purgatory Lady.” Each daily reflection is  composed of a scripture verse, quotes, or anecdotes from a wide variety of trusted Catholic sources, a brief reflection, and a prayer for the Holy Souls. Readers following its daily plan will find wisdom on both the theology of purgatory and fresh impetus to pray for the dead.

A small, but fascinating section of photographs of the “purgatory relics” held at the Church of the Sacred Heart of Suffrage in Rome, is found at the back of the book.

Recommended as a New Year’s gift for Catholics drawn to intercession and for all those in a reflective period such as retirement.

Unshakeable: Building a Life of Virtue in a World of Chaos 

by Father Mike Schmitz 

Father Mike Schmitz courageously addresses the battleground between what we believe and how we actually live on a daily basis. There are two parts to the book, the first dealing with virtues like humility, integrity, and endurance, which we can practice in order to form (or reform) our characters. The second part deals with the cardinal virtues and theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity and addresses how we position ourselves to nurture these virtues.

A great addition to the growing body of work in Virtue Education for modern Catholics.

Recommended for fans of Father Mike Schmitz’s clear and witty presentations and as a gift for confirmation or graduation.

Life Everlasting: Heaven, Hell, Death, and Judgment 

by Jeffrey Morrow

Intended as a study book to accompany Ascension Press’s video series of the same name by Drs. Jeffrey Morrow and Edward Sri, this little volume provides material for reflecting on the last things. Billed as a  “mini-study,” it  provides five chapters for study and some great questions for both personal meditation and group discussion. The reader is also given insights on a number of relevant topics such as the sacrament of anointing of the sick. Talks are available in DVD format or by video-streaming at Ascensionpress.com.

Recommended as a starter book study and for those involved in hospice care and seniors’ ministry.